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Last week, we hosted a roundtable at Piper Maddox as part of the Clean Energy Exchange event series, focused on grid flexibility. With Michael Lee moderating, we had folks from Tesla, Leap, Olivine, Enersponse, Shadowpower, and others who know this space inside out. The feeling in the (virtual) room? We’re at a real tipping point. Virtual Power Plants aren’t just “emergency response” tools anymore, they’re critical infrastructure, and the market conditions are lining up perfectly for them to step up. Capacity prices are through the roof, wholesale markets are volatile, and demand is growing in ways the old models can’t handle. This is exactly when VPPs should be at the forefront of conversations: fast to deploy, low-cost, and able to deliver flexibility exactly where it’s needed. 1. The market design problem The problem is the market design hasn’t caught up. We’re still stuck with siloed programs that box in assets instead of letting them work where they have the most impact. We need models that open up multiple revenue streams and recognise that not all VPP resources are the same – an HVAC system doesn’t behave like an EV fleet or a battery, and they shouldn’t be valued like they do. One point that landed hard in the discussion was around local value. The way we price flexibility right now is far too broad. A single neighbourhood with a cluster of flexible assets can fix a local constraint far more cheaply than building more infrastructure – but you’d never know that from today’s pricing zones. We need distribution-level nodal pricing that actually reflects the hyper-local impact these assets can have. 2. Balancing grid and customer needs Then there’s the customer side. Batteries are the classic example – the grid wants certainty, customers want backup. If programs can’t balance those needs, participation will always be limited. With over 3,500 utilities in the US, capability is all over the place. Some are ready to play, others are decades behind. Meeting them where they are, or going around them when we have to – will be key. That means understanding the realities of each market, working with what’s already in place, and finding ways to connect customers and utilities without overcomplicating the participation process. 3. The missing industry voice The final piece is advocacy. Right now, there’s no unified industry voice pushing for fair valuation or smarter market rules. Imagine what we could do with a coalition of VPP providers, utilities, generators, and even data centres speaking with one voice. The narrative on grid reliability needs a rewrite – and the proof these assets deliver is already there from recent heatwaves and grid events. If we want VPPs to fulfil their potential, we need to align as an industry, decide what we’re pushing for, and make sure the message is loud enough to cut through. Bottom line: VPPs aren’t the future – they’re here. But without changes to market design, pricing, and the way we advocate for them, they’ll stay underused. Get it right, and they can become the backbone of a more flexible, reliable, and cost-effective grid.

At Piper Maddox, we are proud to be part of LHi Group, a global specialist in talent solutions, and even prouder to share that our parent company has just released its first-ever Impact & Sustainability Report, an exciting milestone that reflects our collective commitment to a more sustainable future. A Year of Progress: Sustainability and Social Responsibility in 2024 For those of us working in clean energy and clean tech recruitment, sustainability is more than just a corporate initiative, it’s at the heart of everything we do. That’s why LHi’s 2024 Impact & Sustainability Report is particularly meaningful. It showcases the group’s outstanding achievements across environmental, social, and governance (ESG) commitments, diversity and inclusion efforts, and responsible business growth. Key highlights from the report include: Record-breaking fundraising efforts: LHi Group raised an incredible £26,894 for charitable causes, reinforcing our culture of giving back and driving social impact. Strengthening diversity & inclusion: LHi-IN, our dedicated DEI initiative, expanded to include eight thriving communities, providing a platform for employees to engage, learn, and drive meaningful change. A focus on sustainability: LHi continues to integrate ESG into business decisions, from internal policies to industry partnerships, ensuring we contribute to a cleaner, greener future. Empowering women in leadership: The launch of the Women’s Sales Board marked a major step toward achieving 50/50 gender representation in leadership within five years. Technology-driven impact: AI-powered recruitment solutions enhance our ability to connect top talent with organisations making a difference in clean energy and beyond. What this means for Clean Energy talent solutions For us at Piper Maddox, this report reaffirms our mission: To power the clean energy transition by connecting the best talent with the companies leading the charge. With LHi doubling down on ESG commitments and sustainable recruitment, we are better positioned than ever to support clients and candidates who share our passion for a net-zero future. As we step into 2025, we are excited to align with LHi’s key strategic goals: Expanding sustainable recruitment practices to ensure we place candidates in roles that drive real environmental impact. Enhancing AI-driven hiring solutions to streamline the recruitment process and deliver even greater value to clients and candidates. Growing our presence in high-demand clean energy and clean tech markets, particularly in North America, where investment in renewables and grid transformation is accelerating. Looking Ahead The release of LHi Group’s Impact Report is more than just a reflection on the past, it’s a commitment to the future. At Piper Maddox, we are proud to be part of an organisation that prioritises sustainability, DEI, and responsible business practices. We invite our clients, candidates, and industry partners to explore the full LHi Group Impact & Sustainability Report.

As the world rapidly transitions towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future, the rise of electric vehicles (EVs) and clean transport solutions is playing a central role in this shift. This Monday marks World EV Day, a day dedicated to celebrating the progress and innovation in electric mobility and the industries driving it forward globally. At Piper Maddox, we are specialists in recruiting top talent for the clean energy and clean tech sectors, with eMobility being one of our core focus areas. From electric vehicles and charging infrastructure to sustainable aviation, our team is deeply involved in supporting the growth of this exciting industry. Whether you're looking for experts in the EV space or seeking your next role in eMobility, Piper Maddox is here to help you shape the future of transportation. The eMobility Revolution The electric mobility (eMobility) revolution is transforming the way we move, with electric vehicles rapidly becoming the standard for both personal and commercial transport. However, the eMobility ecosystem extends far beyond just the vehicles themselves. It includes charging infrastructure, battery development, grid integration, and even the innovation taking place in sustainable aviation. As demand for clean transport solutions increases, so does the need for highly skilled professionals to drive this transformation. Piper Maddox is proud to be a key player in this space, working with companies to recruit the exceptional talent required to advance the eMobility revolution. Our Expertise in eMobility Recruitment From building the charging infrastructure that powers electric vehicles to designing revolutionary electric aircraft, Piper Maddox is embedded in every corner of the eMobility landscape. EVs & Charging Infrastructure: The rapid rise in electric vehicles has led to an unprecedented demand for specialist talent across a variety of sectors. We work closely with automotive companies, charging network providers, and technology firms to recruit experts in areas such as automotive engineering, battery technology, charging infrastructure, and software development. Our mission is to ensure the right skills are in place to support ongoing innovation. Sustainable Aviation: As the aviation industry seeks to reduce its carbon footprint, the development of electric and hybrid aircraft is gaining momentum. At Piper Maddox, we partner with pioneering companies to find professionals with expertise in aerospace engineering, energy storage, and propulsion systems, helping to pave the way for a future where air travel is cleaner and greener. Why Piper Maddox? Our recruitment specialists are deeply immersed in the eMobility sector, understanding the unique challenges and opportunities the industry presents. We are committed to finding not only the most talented individuals but those who are passionate about driving forward the clean transportation revolution. Our eMobility recruitment expertise spans across: Electric Vehicle Engineering & Design Battery Development & Energy Storage EV Charging Infrastructure Smart Grid & Energy Management Sustainable Aviation Technologies We are dedicated to connecting the brightest minds with the most innovative companies, ensuring that the right talent is in place to accelerate the transition towards net-zero emissions. Whether you're looking to grow your team or are seeking your next career opportunity, Piper Maddox is your trusted recruitment partner in the eMobility space. Explore the Latest eMobility Roles As we celebrate World EV Day, we encourage you to explore the exciting career opportunities available within the eMobility sector. From electric vehicles to sustainable aviation, Piper Maddox is actively recruiting for a range of positions across the industry. Whether you're an engineer, project manager, or technical specialist, we have a variety of roles perfect for professionals looking to make a meaningful impact in clean transportation. Together, let’s drive the change towards a cleaner, greener future of mobility.

Each year on June 15th, Global Wind Day is celebrated across the world. It is a day for recognising wind energy, its power, and the possibilities it holds to reshape our energy systems, decarbonise our economies, and boost jobs and growth. This year, as we mark Global Wind Day 2024, we reflect on the advancements in wind technology, the growing importance of renewable energy, and the exciting opportunities in the clean energy sector. The Power of Wind: Driving a Sustainable Future Wind energy has emerged as one of the most efficient and sustainable sources of renewable energy. According to windenergy.org, wind power is the largest source of renewable electricity generation in the United States, providing 9.8% of the country’s electricity and growing. (1) Harnessing the natural power of wind through turbines, this clean energy source generates electricity without emitting greenhouse gases or other harmful pollutants. As we face the urgent challenges of climate change, wind energy emerges as a promising solution, providing a practical way to reduce our carbon footprint and transition to a low-carbon economy. In fact, wind power helps avoid 346 million metric tons of CO2 emissions annually—equivalent to the emissions of 76 million cars in the US. (2) In 2024, the global wind energy capacity continues to soar, with significant investments in wind farms, offshore wind projects, and innovative technologies. These advancements are not only helping to meet the growing energy demands but are also creating a multitude of job opportunities in the clean energy sector, with the role of wind turbine technician being the fastest-growing job in the US, increasing by 44% over the next decade. (3) Opportunities in the Wind Energy Sector As a clean energy recruitment brand, we are excited about the diverse career opportunities available in the wind energy sector. Spanning engineering and project management to research and development, the wind industry is brimming with possibilities for professionals eager to make an impact. Here are some key areas where the demand for talent is increasing: Engineering and Technical Roles: With the continuous innovation in turbine technology, there is a growing need for skilled engineers and technicians to design, install, and maintain wind turbines. Mechanical, electrical, and civil engineers are particularly in demand to ensure the efficiency and reliability of wind energy systems. Project Management: Developing and managing wind farms requires adept project managers who can oversee the entire lifecycle of wind projects, from planning and permitting to construction and operation. These roles are crucial for ensuring projects are completed on time, within budget, and to high safety standards. Research and Development: As the wind energy sector evolves, there is a constant need for research and development to improve turbine efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance grid integration. Scientists and researchers play a pivotal role in driving innovations that make wind energy more competitive and sustainable. Environmental and Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring that wind projects comply with environmental regulations and standards is essential. Environmental scientists and compliance officers work to assess and mitigate the impacts of wind farms on local ecosystems and communities. Sales and Marketing: As the wind energy market expands, professionals in sales and marketing are needed to promote wind projects, secure investments, and educate the public and stakeholders about the benefits of wind energy. Looking Ahead As we look to the future, the importance of wind energy will only continue to grow. The transition to a sustainable energy system is essential, and wind power will be at the forefront of this transformation. By embracing the opportunities in the wind energy sector, we can drive innovation, create jobs, and build a cleaner, greener world for future generations. At Piper Maddox, we are committed to connecting passionate individuals with leading companies in the clean energy sector. Our mission is to support the growth of renewable energy by ensuring that the industry has access to the best talent. Whether you are an experienced professional or just starting your career, there is a place for you in the wind energy sector.

Celebrated every year on April 22nd, Earth Day is a reminder of the importance of environmental conservation and sustainability, encouraging us to come together and take action for a healthier planet and brighter future to raise awareness, inspire change, and foster a deeper connection with nature. Today, as we celebrate Earth Day in 2024, it's important to reflect on the steps made in sustainable technology and their role in shaping a more environmentally conscious future. From renewable energy breakthroughs to innovative solutions, these four groundbreaking technologies are at the forefront of shaping the future of sustainability. Next-generation solar panels: Traditional solar panels have long been recognised as a clean energy solution, but advancements in photovoltaic technology are making solar power even more accessible and efficient for powering homes, cars, boats, you name it! We need to ensure that we can continue to revolutinise the way we harness the sun's energy, as currently nearly all solar panels are made from silicon, which boast an efficiency of 22%. This means silicon panels can only convert about one-fifth of the sun's energy into electricity, because the material absorbs only a limited proportion of sunlight's wavelengths. Producing silicon is also expensive and energy-intensive. Scientists have been testing perovskite solar cells by stacking them on top of traditional silicon cells to make tandem cells. Layering the two materials, each absorbing a different part of the sun's spectrum, can potentially increase the panels' efficiency by over 50%. (1) Carbon capture and utilisation (CCU): Addressing the challenge of carbon emissions is crucial in the fight against climate change. CCUS involves the capture of CO2, generally from large point sources like power generation or industrial facilities that use either fossil fuels or biomass as fuel. CCUS facilities currently capture more than 45 Mt CO2 annually. (2) Since January 2022, project developers have announced ambitions for over 50 new capture facilities to be operating by 2030, capturing around 125 Mt CO2 per year. By doing this, it will help to tackle emissions in hard-to-abate sectors, particularly heavy industries like cement, steel or chemicals, and remove CO2 from the air to balance emissions that are unavoidable or technically difficult to abate. Vertical farming and controlled environment agriculture (CEA): With the world's population continuing to grow, sustainable agriculture techniques are essential for ensuring food security while minimising environmental impact. Vertical farming and CEA methods utilise indoor farming systems equipped with LED lighting, hydroponics, and advanced climate control technologies to optimise crop production in urban environments. CEA allows us to produce crops with 70% to 95% less water than required for normal cultivation (3), and therefore by reducing water usage, eliminating the need for chemical pesticides, and minimising land use, these innovative farming practices are revolutionising the way we grow food. Electric and autonomous vehicles: There is no doubt that transportation is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, especially with the increase of cars per household, but electric and autonomous vehicles (AVs) offer a cleaner and more efficient alternative. The widespread adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), coupled with advancements in AV technology, promises to revolutionise the way we travel, reducing carbon emissions, easing traffic congestion, and enhancing road safety. In fact, under an appropriate pricing strategy, SAV deployment could reduce PM2.5 emission and energy consumption by 56–64% and 53–61%, respectively (4). As we look ahead to a more sustainable future, these four groundbreaking technologies are paving the way for transformative change. Through innovation and collaboration, we can create a world where economic wellbeing aligns with environmental care, securing a healthier planet for future generations. This Earth Day, let's celebrate these technological advancements and pledge to advance sustainability even further.

S2 E3: Powering Progress: The Public-Private Partnership with Jen Daloisio Welcome to the third episode of the second season of the ‘Clean Fuels Podcast’ hosted by Alex Horne of Piper Maddox. In this series, we will explore the dynamic CleanTech sector, where we are joined by industry leaders to delve deep into the evolving landscape across North America. Specifically, we focus on Clean Fuels, Hydrogen, and Sustainability markets. Our discussions center on the latest technologies, trends, and the visionary individuals driving change, with a particular emphasis on hiring trends and the influential figures shaping the future of our planet. In this episode, we are thrilled to have Jen Daloisio, SVP of Corporate Operations with FirstLight Energy. This episode, Jen delves into the various types of organizations and environments within renewables/cleantech, highlighting how entities across the spectrum—public, private, non-profit—play pivotal roles in achieving the planet’s decarbonization goals. Jen also explores the diverse skillsets that thrive in different organizational contexts and discusses the challenges newcomers may face. ABOUT JEN DALOISIO: Jen Daloisio currently serves as the SVP of Corporate Operations at FirstLight Energy, following an extensive tenure at The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center as CFO and CEO. With a career spanning consulting, the public sector, and renewable energy development, Jen offers valuable insights into the skills and qualities essential for success in various professional settings. She has also made significant contributions through board work and volunteering with organizations such as Greentown Labs, NECEC Institute, and the MA STEM Advisory Council, focusing on workforce development in the climate space, establishing herself as a pioneering force for sustainability in the industry. You can also listen to the Clean Fuels podcast on the below platforms:Spotify > https://open.spotify.com/show/69TS4ekYNMyYh32JmGxwPV Apple > https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/clean-fuels-podcast/id1649553222 Youtube > https://youtu.be/IwsrrIfnv0k?si=zH2GROeVadhewMQ0